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Sunday, September 14, 2008

Fitness isn't always about running or lifting. It's also about living.

Since I wrote last, I have passed my licensing exam and am now aughorized to sell life and health insurance in Kentucky. I made it to the gym a couple of times while I was studying. I actually felt guilty about wanting to workout when there was so much to learn. I actually went for a 3 mile run as a reward one day. My how life has changed!

I have met with some of my new colleagues several times in the past week. I am amazed at how positive and enthusiastic people are. I'm used to a much more subdued attitude at work. I like this new approach better.

I'm also working on a play, The Little Foxes here in Lexington. I made this commitment before getting laid off, so I really wasn't anticipating that I would be learning a new role and a new career at the same time. I'll be asking a lot of my brain and my body. A year ago, I would not have believed I had a chance. The gym and the road have taught me differently.

My blogging hours are necessarily limited these days. I'll try to keep in touch. Right now my biggest struggle is cramming workouts in between all this other stuff. I can't afford to lose my conditioning this fall. I'm playing double-headers for the next two months.

Monday, September 1, 2008

I remember the first time I heard "Beautiful Boy" on Double Fantasy, John Lennon's valedictory masterpiece. My friend Tom and I wept together in his dorm room as we heard the music and grieved the fallen poet.

I knew intuitively that his words to his young son were true -- 28 years later, I know it from experience.

I think it's important to have a plan. I also think it's important to recognize an opportunity when it comes along.

I think I have seen such an opportunity. I have decided to try to be an insurance salesman. Gross? Bizzare? I don't think so.

Here's what I want from what's left of my life:

I want to help give Mrs P the kind of life that my wandering career and modest income have never made possible.

I want to go to bed every night knowing that someone's life is better because I got up that morning.

I spoke with a splendid person from an insurance company that I believe in. (I don't want to mention any names, but you've seen their duck on TV.) One with products that are affordable and necessary. One that doesn't make money by scaring people. I've been a policyholder myself for several years. I've been studying all weekend, and I'm taking the licensing exam as soon as I can.

It's an entrepreneurial opportunity that's way out there where the ice is thin. Commission only. You're only paid to produce, not just for showing up. I could fall right through into the icy water. Or I could learn that this is a chance to have the living and the life that I have wanted for myself and my family. Mrs P and I have had several long talks about it. We're both a little apprehensive and a lot hopeful.

She believes in me. How can I fail? I believe we're going for it.

By the way, I ran 2.4 mi in 30 minutes yesterday. That's a 12:30 per mile pace, and a new personal best. "Every day, in every way it's getting better and better."